A Loaner ring?

When it came time for my own engagement ring, I learned firsthand just how overwhelming custom design can sometimes feel. My husband, Paul, proposed with a gorgeous oval diamond, then let me run wild with the design. I thought I knew exactly what I wanted, and when it came down to committing the diamond and gold, I needed to be 100% sure. So, I made a “test drive” version in sterling silver with a CZ. I wore it nonstop for three months, beat it up, lived with it—and confirmed it was truly “the one.” That’s when I made the real one in 14k Palladium White Gold with my diamond. (Side note: silver and CZ don’t hold up so well for daily wear due to the softness of both.)

That experience is exactly why I make the custom process easy and stress-free for my clients. Creating something so personal shouldn’t feel intimidating, and if tweaks are needed later, materials can always be reworked into something new. To make it even simpler, I offer what I call a “loaner ring.” Think of it as a stand-in or test-drive engagement ring—something you can propose with, then refine together before committing to the final piece.

You can either have me create a sterling silver mock-up of your dream design, or choose a ready-made sample from my collection of silver and CZ rings (prices usually range between $395-$595 with a portion credited back if it gets returned)—or even a gemstone piece. If it’s a winner, we remake it in precious materials, making any adjustments to size, design, or metal along the way. The best part? You get the thrill of a proposal moment and the chance to create the perfect forever ring together.